8 Essentials for Grilling Out

Keep these eight items on hand to make sure your grill out is smooth sailing.

Whether you’re grilling out for dinner or cooking for a crowd, gather these 8 must-haves and you’ll be well on your way to flame-grilled success.

1. ApronWith so many flavorful sauces around, grill-outs are prone to spills and splatters. But sport your trusty bib apron, and they’re less likely to stain your outfit.

2. SkewersFor cooking the grilled favorite: kebabs. Get more bang for your buck with metal skewers; they last longer, and can tolerate higher temperatures. Plus they don’t splinter or split — which could be potentially dangerous if slivers of wood get stuck in anything you’ve skewered.

3. Paper TowelsFlame-grilled fare is often easier — and more fun — to eat with your hands. Just be sure to have paper towels nearby for cleaning sticky fingers and faces.

4. CondimentsOffer one entrée with a smorgasbord of fixings — it keeps the grilling simple, plus lets diners build their perfect bite. Think compound butters for corn on the cob and steak, flavored mustards for hot dogs, and assorted pickles for burgers.

5. Aluminum FoilKeep delicate ingredients like fish and pre-cut veggies from falling through the grates by grilling them in foil packets. For an extra burst of flavor, add olive oil, lemon juice and your favorite fresh herbs before sealing.

To smoke foods on a gas grill, encase wood chips in a foil packet, poke holes in the top, and place it under the grates for the duration of cooking.

6. Grill CleanerClean, oiled grates help keep foods from sticking. Lightly coat them with cooking spray or olive oil before grilling, and wipe them down after each use, once cooled.

7. SeatingFolding lawn chairs store easily while game blankets double as entertainment. Beach towels work in a pinch. Since cookouts can quickly draw a crowd, ask friends and family to bring extra seats, too.

8. Serving DishesServe hot-off-the-grill foods from platters, or save tabletop space with a tiered cake stand. Line a basket with a pretty tea towel for holding buns and other breads, and fill spare jars with toppings.